Torrealba is suspended for striking an umpire

Texas Rangers catcher Yorvit Torrealba was suspended yesterday from Venezuela’s professional baseball league for 66 games for striking an umpire.

Torrealba issued an apology, saying he was embarrassed about his argument with a home-plate umpire after striking out Friday. He angrily put a hand on the umpire’s mask and shoved him. He was then ejected.

“I wanted to express my sincere apologies to all parties for my actions,” Torrealba said in a statement. “I have extended an apology to the Rangers organization as well.”

League President Jose Grasso Vecchio called Torrealba’s behavior unacceptable and a violation of league rules.

Torrealba plays for the Caracas Lions when not playing in the majors.

CUBS INK TWO RIGHTIES: The Chicago Cubs have agreed to one-year contracts with right-handers Andy Sonnanstine and Manny Corpas.

The deals, which are nonguaranteed split contracts, were announced yesterday. Terms were not available.

Sonnanstine was 28-31 with a 5.26 ERA in five seasons with Tampa Bay.

Corpas spent five seasons with Colorado but did not pitch in the majors last year after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his pitching elbow in September 2010.